In this post, we look behind the scenes at what makes Mac3 truly great.

Mac3 has successfully merged contemporary design and processes with old-school values of attentiveness and quality control (and we know, there isn’t any school like the old school).  I was amazed by the hands-on nature of the Mac3 testing methodology. Still, it does result in a product that has a level of care and inspection that is almost impossible to replicate in a fully automated process.

Only Float Switches that pass the test are Stamped.

In my experience, quality control (and inspection) relies on taking a sample from the current production, which is then used to generalise the state of that production run. Depending on the quantity in that run, it could be in somewhere in the range of 1 from 500 units. Alas, while this scheme does work, it can allow for rogue units to slip through. Mac3 however has a somewhat different approach to this for their ISO 9001:2015 certification. In their quality management system, every float switch (yes, I do mean every unit) is examined and electrically tested by hand! Yep, even now, that gives me pause for thought. This isn’t something that most manufacturers would even consider, but when you need a float switch that works, first time, every time, this is what is required. To top this off, every float switch, be it the superb Small to the mighty Mac5 is marked with a production number after inspection. A mark of distinction that indicates the unit has passed through scrutiny and is worthy of the Mac3 name.

Trust Matters

It is this certainty that really sets Mac3 apart from the rest of the field, not only that it is a quality float switch, but that Mac3 takes the quality of their products this seriously! I personally know that if I need a float switch on a project, Mac3 is the answer. Why? Because I know it works, it will last, and the end user has a better experience because of it. You can trust Mac3.

Mac3 is a beautiful alloy of modern ideas with traditional values.

For more information

Contact Jim, our Mac3 Technical lead. Jim and Tom have over 25 years of experience in Water Control Systems.

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NEW! Mac3 Float Switch – Key Green – made with Recycled Plastic

Is it possible to take a superb idea, and make it better? If pop culture has taught as anything, it is rare (with a few notable exceptions) for a sequel to surpass the original. However, bucking the normal trend, Mac3 have managed just this!

By taking the proven and trusted design of the Key Float Switch, and using 100% recycled plastic for the float body – well, does it get any better? We have the tried and tested design, along with the globally renowned quality, attention to detail and product innovation, and a solid commitment to the environment and waste reduction!

The Key, in recycled plastic, is the perfect choice for those who want to combine reliability with environmental responsibility. Contact us to include it in your next project.

While there isn’t much more to say about the Key Green, (as the Key float switch design has been adopted by so many OEM users). However,  it is most definitely a positive step into the circular economy for what has become a universal clean-water float switch.

For more information

Contact Jim, our Mac3 Technical lead. Jim and Tom have over 25 years of experience in Water Control Systems.

The post Key Green – Now it’s even easier to be green! appeared first on Mac 3 UK.

If you closed your eyes and pictured a float switch – I’d wager you imagine the Key from Mac3.

The Key is a solid and straightforward float switch, with the expected attention to detail you would expect from Mac3. Simply put, they work! There isn’t much I can say about these other than these blue and yellow float switches are a familiar fixture on OEM float-switched pumps worldwide.

The Key is available in PVC and H07RN-F cable types, in 2, 5, 10, 15 and 20m lengths. The Key is installed with a counterweight on the cable or with the cable restrained to a pump or internal fixture of a tank installation.

Where the Key Clean Water Float Switch can be Installed

The Key is suitable for use with a tank level controller, pump float switch modification or a complete tank and pump control system.

The Key is particularly suitable as a hardware dry-run protection measure. The Key, wired directly into the mains feed to a pump (with an IP68-rated connector) or using a junction box outside the tank, will isolate the pump when the water level drops below the level set at installation. Using the Key for dry-run protection is particularly useful with centrifugal pumps (as they will require re-priming if they run dry) or when using a submerged pump that requires immersion for cooling.

Conversely, the Key can be employed as part of a top-up system for filling the tank or simply as tethered float switch – positioned at the maximum required level of the tank itself. It can then either be wired into a controller for a manual pump or wired into an automatic pump.

The Key is a nigh-on universal float switch for clean water applications and certainly worth keeping in mind when replacing a failed float switch in situ.

For more information

Contact Jim, our Mac3 Technical lead. Jim and Tom have over 25 years of experience in Water Control Systems.

The post Key Clean Water Float Switch appeared first on Mac 3 UK.

Mac3 Float Switch – Original

The original Mac3 is a simple but well-designed float switch for use primarily in clean water – but with its streamlined shape, is also suitable in water containing small amounts of suspended solids.

The flagship of the Mac3 float switch line, simply put – it just works! The Mac3 takes a float switch and refines the concept. There are no corners or sharp edges that can get caught on obstructions inside a tank or ragging points that cause irregular movement through a liquid. The polypropylene construction is both hardwearing and resistant to most fluids it is likely to encounter. Available in both the standard PVC and H07RN-F (rubber) cable types, the Mac 3 can be installed in almost any environment.

Mac3 Float Switch – the “go-to” for clean water pump protection

If I’m designing a pump setup, my first instinct is to reach for the Mac3! Then the only decision to make is the cable length and material (the go-to on my list would be the 2 meter, H07RN-F with a counterweight – MGM0206GB0C). With one of these, I can be sure that it will work in just about any situation that doesn’t require something a little more specialised.

The Mac3 can be installed as part of a controller installation (level or process control) or for dry-run protection on a pump. When wiring the Mac3 directly into a pump, I’d recommend using an IP68-rated T-joint connector (always in stock) to be sure there are no problems with the integrity of the connection. Though, there is no reason (if a suitable cable length is used) that the connection cannot be outside of the tank- with the Mac3 then being run into the tank itself.

For more information

Contact Jim, our Mac3 Technical lead. Jim and Tom have over 25 years of experience in Water Control Systems.

The post Mac3 Float Switch – The Original appeared first on Mac 3 UK.

Compact Float Switch – Reka

The Reka can replace a traditional float switch in most clear water situations, with the benefit of not needing any extra space outside of its own footprint. I find this unit works particularly well when using either a small tank or a tank with filters and pipework in the tank itself. Using a Reka in these tanks means that I don’t need to worry about a conventional float switch getting caught up (I think we have all seen what happens next!).

Pump control is only the start for these Reka units. Rather than simply turning a pump on or off, we can use a Reka to control virtually anything that requires the presence or absence of water.

Early Flood Warning Alert

At this time of year when flooding begins to make headlines, it is worth considering Reka units and the potential role they can play in both flood alerts, and even flood defence. Combined with an Alarm box the Reka is a powerful and useful tool in flood zones.

The Reka can be installed at a low point, between a property and a potential ingress point for flood water. Once the water level has risen sufficiently to activate the Reka, the alarm will sound – potentially giving the occupant enough time to move valuables to higher ground, or even leave the property entirely. This would be a very simple version, but there is nothing to stop you from using the Reka, combined with a suitable high-flow pump, to actively protect important areas. Contact us for compatible Alarm and Pump Control Units.

Compact Float Switch for Off-grid Water Level Control or Alarm

At the other end of the spectrum, the 12/24V Reka Compact Float Switch can be used in vehicle or trailer-mounted installations. Two examples are:

1. A submerged Reka unit is mounted at the lowest level of the tank, this can then be connected to an alert (light or alarm) in the cab. Once the level has dropped past the Reka, the alarm is triggered. Particularly useful in watering or dust suppression roles – preventing the operator from continuing operations without sufficient water being available.
2. A Reka unit is mounted to the fill level of a tank or bowser – when the tank has been filled to this point an alarm can be triggered, or (depending on the site setup) the feeding valve can be closed. Saving the operator from having to stand on a ladder – or hang around the tank during filling.

Reka Compact Float Switch Alternative for different liquids.

Fluid Level Sensor

In fact, the Reka can be deployed with other liquids such as: Liquid Soap, Milk, Fruit Juices and Wines. Though it is worth remembering that the conductivity of these liquids differs, which is reflected in the size of the effective working sensing areas on the Reka unit. This can be easily accommodated for at the design stage.

The only area that this unit isn’t suitable for is sludge – or water with large amounts of suspended solids; this would require a dedicated float switch (e-Fly or Mac 5).

For more information

Contact Jim, our Mac3 Technical lead. Jim and Tom have over 25 years of experience in Water Control Systems.

The post Compact Float Switch no moving parts – Reka appeared first on Mac 3 UK.